Now more than ever, Canadian companies must innovate to compete in the global marketplace. Research and development play key roles in innovation, and can lead to new and improved products, technologies, knowledge and services.

Connect Canada offers a cost-effective way for companies to engage in advanced R&D. Regardless of the sector or location across the country, Connect Canada can help companies find a graduate student or post-doctoral fellow who can help resolve the most pressing R&D issue. An investment of $5,000, the cost to secure a Connect Canada intern, could pay for itself multiple times depending on the outcome of the project. The company’s $5,000 investment is matched by a $5,000 contribution from Connect Canada, providing total funding of $10,000 to the intern.

Connect Canada takes no ownership of intellectual property generated through a placement. Intellectual property agreements are to be determined by the terms of the intern’s home university, unless a separate agreement is negotiated between the university, the researchers and the sponsoring company.

It can be a challenge to gain industry experience while working on a graduate degree. Connect Canada internships offer the best of both worlds by providing four-to-six month placements. Each internship focuses on a R&D issue, allowing interns to apply the knowledge from their academic studies in an industry setting. Interns spend at least 50 per cent of the placement working at the company and the remainder at their home university.

Participation in Connect Canada is also a great way to find potential employees. Connect Canada interns not only bring research expertise, but also gain insight to your organization. For complete details, please see the Connect Canada program guide.